Graduate Project Title

Author

Document Type

Graduate Project

Date of Degree Completion

2008

Degree Name

Master of Education (MEd)

Department

Education

Committee Chair

Steven Nourse

Second Committee Member

C. Gann

Third Committee Member

A. Thyfault

Abstract

School community is critically important for healthy adolescent development. School connectedness has been found to be even more powerful than family connectedness in terms of protection against acting out behaviors in adolescence (Harrison & Narayan, 2003 ). Increasing student involvement in urban elementary settings through student government would unify students, communities, parents and staff. Establishing a student government in an urban school setting promotes student voice, student interest and helps tie community and staff together. The importance of belonging is essential in providing a safe and productive educational environment.